Jharkhand’s first-ever Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy triumph was sealed under lights on the big stage, but the groundwork had was put in well before the season began, guided by a familiar presence of MS Dhoni in the state’s cricketing ecosystem.

According to JSCA joint secretary Shahbaz Nadeem, Jharkhand’s administrative reset before the campaign was carried out with regular guidance from MS Dhoni, a behind-the-scenes influence that played a key role in the state’s historic Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy win.

Jharkhand has consistently produced top-tier cricket talent, a legacy carried forward by Ishan Kishan, whose explosive contributions fueled the title-winning campaign. Recently brought back into India’s T20 squad ahead of next year’s World Cup, Kishan now follows a trajectory once set by MS Dhoni, the state’s most iconic cricketing figure.

Even after retiring from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni has stayed closely linked with Jharkhand cricket. When the JSCA underwent structural changes in 2024, Dhoni acted as a crucial advisor, helping officials chart a long-term roadmap for the state.

Nadeem, following a long playing career and now in administration, clarified that Dhoni’s guidance was important. Talking to ESPNcricinfo, he explained that Dhoni’s input was sought on coaching appointments and strategic decisions, including the selection of Ratan Kumar as the men’s coach.

“When we started the season, right from the appointment of the coaching staff, we have always taken his advice and suggestions. He followed the entire (SMAT) tournament, noted all the strengths and weaknesses of the players and discussed with us,” Nadeem said.

Jharkhand’s careful planning and guidance translated into near-total dominance in the 2025–26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, winning 10 of their 11 games with aggressive and modern T20 cricket. Captain Ishan Kishan led from the front, amassing 517 runs at a strike rate of 197. Key contributions came from Kumar Kushagra, a dependable finisher, and Anukul Roy, who scored 303 runs and took 19 wickets, earning the Player of the Tournament award. In the final versus Haryana, Jharkhand posted 262 and secured a comfortable victory, showcasing the team’s preparation, confidence, and balance throughout the tournament.

“He keeps track of every Jharkhand domestic player’s numbers and is deeply committed to the growth of cricket in the state,” Nadeem said, reflecting Dhoni’s enduring involvement.